Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare market, praised for its capacity to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.

Where Squalane Oil Comes From

Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple primary categories: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.

Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.

Botanical-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This option ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare use.

Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources

Among plant-derived squalane oils, two categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer vegan alternatives, their sustainability differs significantly.

Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out

Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for environmental reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, what does squalane oil do olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as other plant-based oils.

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often produces environmental degradation. This makes it environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.

The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:

Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.

Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice for even the oiliest skin.

Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.

Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for delicate skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil delivers incredible advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best solutions available.